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Is grain-free dog food safe? What about probiotics and fish oil risks?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 8 years and 6 months old | 80 lbs

Hi! I am trying to make the best decisions for Rocco. He gets glucosamine/chondroitin for his joints, a powdered probiotic for intestinal health, and omega 3 fish oil capsules (sardines and anchovies). I'm curious of your thoughts? Is the probiotic useless if its powdered (not live)? Is there a risk of heavy metals in the fish oils? Also, we feed him grain free because of his seasonal allergies (per our vet). Is this safe? News reports say risk of DCM? Grains bad for allergies? Thank you

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 29th, 2019

I like the supplements you have picked for Rocco, and the powdered probiotic is just fine. There is only a risk with the fish oils if you give him more than the recommend dose. No, grain free is no safe at all. It does increase the risk of DCM. Grain free is a dangerous fad, a marketing tool. Grain allergies are actually really rare in dogs. I would switch his food. I hope this helps!

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